Basidiobolus ranarum

Basidiobolus ranarum is a fungus that belongs to the Zygomycota phylum. It is a rare cause of subcutaneous mycosis, a type of fungal infection that affects the skin. The fungus is found in the soil and decaying organic matter, and is known to infect amphibians and reptiles, as well as humans.

Taxonomy

Basidiobolus ranarum is a member of the Basidiobolaceae family, which is part of the Entomophthorales order. The genus Basidiobolus was first described by Eidam in 1886. The species ranarum was identified by Hesseltine and Ellis in 1964.

Morphology

The fungus is characterized by its large, broad, non-septate hyphae. It produces zygospores, which are thick-walled, resistant spores formed by the fusion of two similar sexual cells.

Pathogenesis

Basidiobolus ranarum is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it feeds on dead or decaying organic material. However, it can also cause infection in humans and animals. The fungus enters the body through small cuts or abrasions in the skin. Once inside, it can cause a localized infection, known as basidiobolomycosis, which is characterized by the formation of granulomatous lesions.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of basidiobolomycosis is typically made through histopathological examination of the infected tissue. The fungus can be identified by its characteristic broad, non-septate hyphae and the presence of zygospores. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the infected tissue, followed by antifungal therapy with drugs such as itraconazole or potassium iodide.

Epidemiology

Basidiobolus ranarum is found worldwide, but cases of basidiobolomycosis are most commonly reported in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia. The fungus is often found in soil and decaying organic matter, and is known to infect amphibians and reptiles.